Embryo Transfer Acupuncture
I often get questions regarding how acupuncture treatment helps with pre and post embryo transfer in an IVF cycle, so I thought it would be worth exploring and why I highly recommend these treatments.
Research supports the use of acupuncture before and after embryo transfer. In a well known study, acupuncture done before and after embryo transfer resulted in higher rates of pregnancy (42.5% in the acupuncture group versus 26.3 in the control group).
WhY Acupuncture?
One of the first orders of business in supporting reproduction is to ensure that the reproductive organs are receiving adequate nourishment. Stress and/or aging can lead to a decline in blood flow to the uterus and ovaries. Acupuncture can increase circulation by slowing down (or “down-regulating”) the nervous system (central sympathetic nervous system) which then causes the blood vessels to dilate. When the vessels dilate, they release a flood of nutrient dense blood to the ovaries and uterus. Increased ovarian blood flow may help with response to fertility medications. Increased uterine blood flow ensures a thick uterine lining and sets up an ideal environment for implantation. Better response, better eggs, better lining.
Speaking of stress, that’s another reason acupuncture helps with IVF success. Research shows that when needles are placed in the skin, the body releases its own natural pain killers (endorphins). Endorphins are responsible for the relaxed feeling one gets after a session. It causes muscles to relax, breathing and heart rate to slow, and the mind to calm. Multiple studies show that acupuncture helps to decrease levels in the the stress hormone, cortisol, and that it stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone and signaling substance that regulates the parasympathetic nervous system. You've probably heard of the “fight-or-flight” response that is governed by the sympathetic nervous system. Acupuncture has a huge effect on the regulation of the nervous system.
Embryo Transfer Acupuncture With Me
Ideally I like to see you on the day of transfer, before and after. And hopefully I will have been treating you before embryo transfer day, but if not, that’s ok. Beyond the increase in pregnancy rates, some additional benefits include reducing any symptoms from the hormones like headaches, irritability, hot flashes, etc and helping you to relax. Transfer day is a big day often filled with a mix of emotions that can range from excitement and optimism to anxiety and fear. Acupuncture on transfer day can be such a wonderful way to relax and emotionally prepare for your transfer.
The acupuncture treatment following transfer can help in preventing contractions and makes successful implantation more likely. Once implantation has occurred it will help to nourish the embryo.
Please reach out if you are undergoing or planning on starting an IVF cycle. Acupuncture can help with making it a success!